Letter: What we need

Re: Daily News article about St. Matthew's House, "What do these 85 people have in common?"

This article begs the question: What is the solution regarding the living arrangements for newly released prison inmates? It does not lie within the Florida penal system, which consists of 61 major correctional institutions, 41 work camps, 34 work release programs, five road camps and one treatment center.

The Florida prison website lists it costs approximately $54.30 daily per prisoner for food, clothes, housing and the laughable educational and medical services. Of interest is that one of the first facts cited is "the majority of Florida prisons are not air-conditioned." Oddly enough, county animal shelters are air-conditioned.

Before being released, prisoners are evaluated by a professional staff. Next, a parole officer is assigned to them. A verified address is mandatory to receive community services.

As one who holds an advanced degree in criminal justice and a strong professional work history in both juvenile and adult probation, I suggest a concept for your consideration: Community-Based Corrections.

Community-based correctional facilities offer housing, counseling, substance abuse counseling and job placement services that are currently unavailable in a single setting. Naples is one of the few cities where this is unavailable. I am ready to serve in any capacity to start such a needed program.

Naples needs to change its image as being home to the very rich and nearly perfect. It also is the home of those who have made mistakes, but need help as they return home.